Some took bold stances on policy. BP Capital Chairman and CEO T. Boone Pickens thinks that in 2013, control of the energy debate in the U.S. will shift from the federal government to individual states.Virgin Group Founder Richard Branson predicts the 40-year war on drugs will end.

Others had big ideas about the rise of social media in brand marketing, including Olivier Fleurot, CEO of MSLGROUP, a Publicis Group company, one of the biggest advertising holding companies. Whatever the issue, these ideas will influence the professional conversation in 2013.